German Car Zone

What is it?

This is the Mercedes E220 CDI Sport, and it’s the first time we’ve got our hands on the new E-class in right-hand-drive form.

The E220 CDI Sport is the top-spec trim level of the E-class’s entry-level engine, so you get variable-ratio steering and an AMG bodykit over the mid-spec avantgarde trim.

As for the engine itself, it’s the same 2.1-litre twin-turbo diesel unit you’ll find in the E250 CDI but detuned to 168bhp from 201bhp. Torque is reduced from 369lb ft to 295lb ft.

What’s it like?

The conversion to right-hand drive has been the downfall of many a German executive saloon, and the old E-class was no exception; the pedals on UK cars were distinctly offset, leaving UK drivers with an awkward, twisted driving position.

Thankfully, the new E-class consigns such awkwardness to history. The basic relationship between pedals, seat and steering wheel is spot on, and the vast range of adjustment (especially on the electrically adjustable steering column) means that drivers of most shapes and sizes should find it easy to get comfortable.


Full Story: Autocar - Mercedes E220 CDI Sport


It is so refreshing to hear that Mercedes is building their cars the right way again. Let BMWs chase ultimate cornering speeds and what not, a Mercedes is supposed to be built like and as safe as a tank and be supremely comfortable and be very roadworthy if not the sportiest thing on the block.


M

Agreed. That's what its like to be a Mercedes-Benz fan, and that's why I'm one.

" A new seven-speed gearbox will be available from September, but for now customers will have to make do with the old five-speed unit."

That's very, very interesting. Anybody knows more about that?

Yeah. Wonder why it wasn't launched with the 7 speed like the V6 and V8s'. Unless they're talking about another new box?

Should make the car even better.

I think the car looks quite stunning from this angle.

They may not like the details, but for one thing, the proportions are spot on! MB doesn't usually stuff up proportion on their sedans and coupes.

Really pleased to read in all the reviews that this is such a well rounded car. Agile and comfortable, with real quality.

It's interesting and needed, because the new 5er will have an 8 speed...

Wow!! 7-speed for the 4-cylinder diesel - that will put them up to a whole different league! Never understand, why it wasn't available since the first day of the W212 launch…

I agree 100%. Even AMG Mercs should be more comfort oriented. I don't care about laptimes, customers don't spend time on tracks.. I have a 335i coupe with Sports Package and the ride is hideous - the steering is also not assisted enough. I believe the C63 AMG is also hard, which in my books is a no-no for Merecedes. I'm going to change back to MB and hope they keep their core brand values intact. I am not an old man either.. 34 yrs old.

LOL...what got you into the 335i?